31 Great Rhyming Books
The rhyming books in this post are perfect for your emergent reader, and you will love them too!
Rhyming skills are so important for new readers. Children need to be able to understand the concept of rhyming when developing their phonological awareness skills.
This concept of rhyming can be a difficult one to learn at first. Children often have more trouble hearing sounds at the ends of words. These rhyming books will help your child become familiar with rhyming which is an essential pre-reading skill.
And, if you are looking for more reading readiness tips and books, head over to my articles about reading readiness.
*Rhyming Books Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
The Best Rhyming Books for Preschool
Giraffes Can’t Dance
Author: Giles Andreae
Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
Year: 1999
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 1 – 5
Plot
Gerald is a giraffe who wants to dance but things that is can’t. Thanks to a friend who encourages him, Gerald finds a way to embrace his differences.
Why Jackie loves it
I absolutely love this book about following your heart and being true to yourself. The bonus of rhyming makes this book that much more special. This is one of the children’s books about being different that I was happy to read over and over.
Find this book in: Animal Books for Kids / Books for 2-Year-Olds / Rhyming Books
Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site
Author: Sherry Dusky Rinker
Illustrator: Tom Lichtenheld
Year: 2011
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 7
More info: Part of the Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site series
Plot
Little kids love construction vehicles. The giant, funky looking machinery never fails to capture their attention. So obviously, there isn’t a better way to start bedtime than with a rhyming construction book about the giants machines going to bed after a long day at work.
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve read this so many times I can still hear myself whisper-reading “Down on the big construction site, the tough trucks work with all their might…” This is one of my favorite books series to gift to new parents! It’s a modern classic.
Find this book in: Bedtime Stories / Best Books for 3-year-olds / Rhyming Books
But Not the Hippopotamus
Author: Sandra Boynton
Illustrator: Boynton
Year: 1982
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 4
Plot
Animals are all playing together- cavorting in a bog, drinking juice etc. and the hippo is not joining them.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved reading this with my kids. It is utterly ridiculous and completely wonderful. One of my oldest son’s first words was “armadillo!” It is a perfect classic children’s book.
Find this book in: Animal Books for Kids / Books for a 1-year-old / Rhyming Books / Classic Books for Kids
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Author: Bill Martin Jr. & John Archambault
Illustrator: Lois Ehlert
Year: 1989
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 4
More info: Chicka Chika #1
Plot
Rhyming? check. Letters? check. This classic book checks so many boxes with the added bonus that it is fun to read with your kids. Even the name itself is a perfect example of alliteration in books.
Why Jackie loves it
If you have not picked up yet, it is a must-read for any preschool child and a perfect book to help with reading readiness as well.
Find this book in: Alphabet Books / Rhyming Books / Books for a 1-year-old / Alliteration Books / Classic Books for Kids
Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney
As the original book in the Lama Llama series, Llama Llama Red Pajama has a special place in our hearts. It’s the story that introduced us to our pal and his amazing Mama Llama.
In this one, Llama Llama is having trouble falling asleep – something every child can relate to, but his behavior has Mama maintaining a firm but loving routine to help Llama.
Why I Like This Book: Every child has trouble with bedtime at some point. This sweet book helps kids realize they are not alone.
Appropriate for Ages 1-3
Find This Book In: Bedtime Books for Kids / Best Animal Books for Kids
Bear Wants More
Author: Karma Wilson
Illustrator: Jane Chapman
Year: 2003
Genre: Board Books
Age: 1 – 4
More info: Part of the Bear Books series
Plot
After waking up from his winter hibernation, he is so hungry! Eager to help him after his long sleep, his friends help him gather things to eat.
Why Kirsten loves it
There are so many things about this book that I adore. Bear’s friends are so wonderful and supportive of him and he is so sweet and gentle. This book also has wonderful vocabulary words for little ears.
Find this book in: Best Books for 2-year-olds / Rhyming Books
Great Kindergarten Rhyming Books
Room on the Broom
Author: Julia Donaldson
Illustrator: Axel Scheffler
Year: 2003
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 8
Plot
A friendly witch takes to the night on her broomstick, but as the wind blows away her hat, her bow, and her wand, she finds some cute friends to join her on her ride. Will her friends be able to save her from a hungry dragon? This classic Halloween book for kids is now a cartoon movie!
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a year-round book in my house. The sweet tale by Donaldson and the fun illustrations by Scheffler will have this on your favorites list long after Halloween is over!
Why Jackie loves it
The wonderful rhymes in this book tell the story of friendship and inclusivity. This is one of my favorite books to promote reading readiness.
Find this book in: Witch Books for Kids / Halloween Picture Books / Halloween Movies Based on Books / Rhyming Books / Dragon Books for Kids / Best Books for 2-year-olds
The Circus Ship
Author: Chris Van Dusen
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Year: 2009
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 5
Plot
As a circus ship is headed toward Maine, it encounters a storm and begins to sink. The animals who are left to fend for themselves make it to safety and become part of the town. When the horrible owner of the circus comes looking for the animals, he encounters a surprise.
Why Jackie loves it
This book about a sunken circus ship is not only funny, but it is heartwarming as well. Chris Van Dusen is a master of rhyme. The rhyming scheme in this book is fantastic which only adds to the delight of this animal book.
Find this book in: Animal Book for Kids / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 4-year-olds
Don’t Be Silly Mrs. Millie by Judy Cox
Mrs. Millie keeps making mistakes like telling her students to wear their bats and kittens. Not only is this book perfect for identifying rhyming words, but it also incorporates another wordplay that will help in the development of reading skills.
If I Built a House by Chris Van Dusen
I cannot count the number of times I have read this book and it will never be enough. The imagination of the wonderful Chris Van Dusen never ceases to amaze me. This book is the one that started out love of this amazing author. If you have not read this, what are you waiting for?
Princess Bess Gets Dressed by Margery Cuyler
I am usually not the first person to jump at a princess book. But this one is different. Princess Bess takes her duties as a princess very seriously but, she has another side to her as well.
The Gruffalo
Author: Julia Donaldson
Illustrator: Axel Scheffler
Year: 2005
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 7
Plot
This book is another classic in our house. Mouse proves that a little bit of brain is all you need when faced with a whole lot of muscle. We adore this rhyming wonder.
Why Jackie loves it
Not only is this book written in rhyme, but it is funny as well. It also has a very strong message about brains vs. brawn as well as bullying.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Animal Children’s Books / Best Books for 5-Year-Olds
Rhyme Crime
Author: Jon Burgerman
Illustrator: Jon Burgerman
Year: 2017
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
Plot
When a thief commits a crime, everything he steals becomes a rhyme. Yep. That’s the premise, and it gets uproariously funny.
Why Jackie loves it
The rhymes in this book create simple humor that are not only funny but will give you child a chance to guess what the word thief will do next.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 3-year-olds
The Wonky Donkey
Author: Craig Smith
Illustrator: Katz Cowley
Year: 2010
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2+
Plot
This book starts with what seems like a simple story. I was walking down the road and I saw a donkey who only had three legs… This story progresses into a hysterical tale of a donkey that will leave you in tears from laughing so hard.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is hilarious! But more than that, this book is a great book to read with your child to practice their auditory memory skills. The description of the donkey repeats in its entirety with each new item added to give your child a chance to remember and repeat.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 3-year-olds / Animal Books
Stretchy McHandsome
Author: Judy Schachner
Illustrator: Judy Schachner
Year: 2019
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 5
Plot
An adorable stray cat, who often gets into trouble, loves to explore town and get into mischief. When he meets a little girl with the same personality, he realizes her lap looks awfully inviting.
Why Jackie loves it
We love our butterscotch kitty and so this book was a no brainer. Stretchy McHandsome finds his perfect girl with humor, love and rhyme. Who could ask for anything more.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 3-year-olds
Iggy Peck Architect
Author: Andrea Beaty
Illustrator: David Roberts
Year: 2007
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 6
More info: The Questioneers #1
Plot
2nd grader, Iggy Peck wants to be an architect when he grows up. He constantly building things around the classroom, much to the dismay of his teacher. When his class gets stranded on a class trip, it’s up to Iggy to save the day!
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Iggy Peck and all his friends. They are smart, funny, and independent thinkers. Not only does this book put a spotlight on being yourself but, the rhymes and vocabulary are nothing short of spectacular.
Find this book in: Best Books for 4-year-olds / Rhyming Books
Books with Some Rhymes
Sheep in a Jeep
Author: Nancy E. Shaw
Illustrator: Margot Apple
Year: 2016
Genre: Board Books
Age: 1 – 3
Plot
These sheep are driving and get stuck in the mud. The entire story does not rhyme but there are many rhyming words from the same word family. It is funny and perfect for a young reader. Everyone in my family can still recite every word of this one!
This is a perfect book to include in a list of children’s books with alliteration because there are a few examples in this hilarious and silly book.
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a perfect book to include in a list of children’s books with alliteration because there are a few examples in this hilarious and silly book.
Find this book in: Alliteration Books / Books for a 1-year-old / Rhyming Books
Giant Jumperee
Author: Julia Donaldson
Illustrator: Helen Oxenbury
Year: 2017
Genre: Picture Books
Age: 2 – 4
Plot
All the animals are terrified of the giant jumperee who is hiding in rabbit’s hole. When mama frog comes to help, will she be able to do what nobody else could and get the giant jumperee out of rabbit’s house?
Why Jackie loves it
My kids and I laugh out loud every time we read this book. I wanted to include books that had some rhymes without the whole book rhyming. This book has the least amount of rhymes in the book but I wanted to include it because of how adorable it is.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Shark in the Park
Author: Phil Roxbee Cox
Illustrator: Stephen Cartwright
Year: 2006
Genre: Beginning Reader
Age: 5 – 6
More info: Part of the Usborne Phonics Readers
Plot
Fat cat, big pig and pup are all concerned that there is a shark in the pond at the park.
Why Jackie loves it
The Usborne Phonics Readers are some of my favorite books for developing phonological awareness.
Find this book in: Shark Books / Best Books for 5-year-olds / Rhyming Books
Rhyming Dust Bunnies by Jan Thomas
These dust bunnies love to rhyme and are quite excellent at it- except for Bob. He cannot quite seems to get it right. Your child will love to giggle as Bob tries to rhyme. It will also give them a chance to recognize the odd bunny out. sheep
Classic Rhyming Books
Madeline
Author: Ludwig Bemelmans
Illustrator: Ludwig Bemelmans
Year: 1939
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 1 – 5
More info: Madeline #1, Caldecott Honor Book
Plot
Madeline is the smallest of the 12 little girls in 2 straight lines, but nothing frightens her. Join her as she wanders through Paris, which comes alive thanks to Bemelmans’ whimsical illustrations.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is one of my favorites of all time. There is something about the little girls in two straight lines that reminds me of my childhood. The rhythm and rhyme are perfect for any age.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Each Peach, Pear, Plum
Author: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Illustrator: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Year: 1978
Genre: Board Books
Age: 0 – 3
Plot
This adorable eye spy book has wonderful pictures, featuring nursery rhymes and fairy tale characters. It’s a perfect classic children’s book for a 2-year-old.
Why Jackie loves it
The rhyming makes it memorable and easy to recite. This is my favorite book to gift to new parents.
Find this book in: Classic Kids Books / Best Board Books / Books for 1-year-olds / Food Books for Children / Rhyming Books
Green Eggs and Ham
Author: Dr. Suess
Illustrator: Dr. Suess
Year: 1960
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
Plot
At 60 years old, this book is a classic that has withstood the test of time. The rhyme, rhythm, and repetition in this book make it so easy to remember and predict what will happen.
Why Jackie loves it
The silliness and the story make it enjoyable for parents to read. Not only is this book hilarious, but it teaches a lesson about trying new food as well.
Find this book in: Books About Food for Kids / Classic Books for Kids / Rhyming Books
Plot
The rhythm of the story and the non-sensical rhymes make the book completely captivating. A boy and a bear head out on an adventure to pick berries in this delightful classic kids’ book. Marshmallow Cattails? Waffle and butter lily pads? Yes, please!
As a bonus, there is counting and alliteration in this picture book. No list of books for kids would be complete without this adorable read.
Why Kirsten loves it
This was my favorite book to read to her kids and as soon as you look at the pictures and start reading it, you will understand why. I have a video of reading this to my son when he was 4 months old and his face lit up as I read it. It will forever be in my home.
Find this book in: Alliteration Books / Counting Books / Rhyming Books / Best Board Books / Kids Food Books / Best Books for a 1-year-old
Chicken Soup with Rice
Author: Maurice Sendak
Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Year: 1962
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 5
Plot
Chicken Soup with Rice is one of 4 rhyming stories in this collection of Maurice Sendak’s work. Not only does this book rhyme but it teaches the months of the year as well.
Why Jackie loves it
The set of books by Maurice Sendak was turned into a play called Really Rosie. You can find the music and sing along.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Plot
This classic alliteration book is a twisty, turny, tongue-scrambling dream come true for word-lovers like me and a nightmare if you try and read this too quickly.
Why Jackie loves it
I absolutely love to read about the Tweetle beetle battles with their paddles in puddles. If you are looking for alliteration in books, this one is the clear champion.
Find this book in: Alliteration Books / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 4-year-olds
Poetry Books
Giraffe and a Half by Shel Silverstein
Leave it to Shel Silverstein to take rhyming to the next level with this book. The repetition and rhyming is a tongue twister- rhyme extraordinaire! Even 50 years after publication, it is still relevant. Try making up your own rhymes to add to this story of a giraffe and a half
Pizza the Size of the Sun by Jack Prelutsky
My younger son never loved to listen to chapter books. But, he would listen to me read him poems for hours. We love this book of poetry and go back to it time and time again. Even now that he is in middle school, we will sometimes read a few poems together because they are so much fun.
Where the Sidewalk Ends: Poems and Drawings
Author: Shel Silverstein
Illustrator: Shel Silverstein
Year: 1974
Genre: Poetry
Age: 4+
Plot
This book of poems, stories, and drawings is an iconic collection of Shel Silverstein. His humor is present in both the writings and illustrations.
Why Kirsten loves it
Shel Silverstein is the one who started it all, in my opinion. He paved the road for other poets to write poetry for children to enjoy. The drawing and the humor make this book a classic.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 9-year-olds
I’m Just No Good at Rhyming
Author: Chris Harris
Illustrator: Lane Smith
Year: 2017
Genre: Poetry
Age: 6 – 106
More info: Mischievous Nonsense #1
Plot
Chris Harris made his debut with this hysterical collection of poems reminiscent of Shel Silverstein or Dr. Seuss. Even better, Lane Smith added his charm to the illustrations creating a poetry book for the modern era.
Why Jackie loves it
Multiple children have requested this book for multiple years as the book to read in class when I am the guest reader. Not only do my kids love it, but the kids in the class ask my kids if I can bring this book to read. I absolutely love this book of poetry, and it is perfect for children from age 6 to 106.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 9-year-olds
